With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, many of you might be thinking of how to show your sweethearts just how much you care about them. Many lovers will receive chocolates, flowers, or jewelry for the holiday, and many couples might find themselves splitting a romantic dinner or even sharing starry-eyed glances over dessert… perhaps of strawberries and cream, a favorite combination for this day of love. But why are strawberries always associated with romance? Other than the obvious answer that they look like plump, red hearts, why are strawberries considered to be the “fruit of love?” Grow Local decided to research this connection between the scrumptious fruits and acts of affection. Check out these interesting facts about strawberries and love, as well as some tips on how to plant strawberries in your garden this spring!
Why we are in LOVE with Strawberries
Ellen Orabone
Strawberries and Love
- Strawberries are a symbol of purity and sensuality, fertility and abundance, humility and modesty. The strawberry's fruit is made the symbol of perfect goodness because of its delicious flavor and fragrance.
- In Roman times, it was the fruit associated with the goddess Venus and Ancient Romans often made offerings of the fruit at her temples.
- Entire strawberry plants were used to treat depression and melancholy. No wonder they make us so happy when we eat them!
- In France, newlywed couples are, by tradition, served soup made from thinned sour cream, powdered sugar, and strawberries for breakfast as soon as they emerge from their bridal chamber.
- There is also a legend that if someone eats half of a strawberry and feeds the other half to someone else of the opposite sex, these two people would fall in love with each other in no time.
- Strawberries have been associated with goodness and purity in Christian history. The strawberry was once believed to be a holy symbol of the Virgin Mary.
How to Plant Strawberries
- Plant in full sun or dappled shade (they require 6-10 hours of direct sunlight), and in somewhat sandy soil.
- Strawberries are sprawling plants, so make sure to give them plenty of room (12-20 inches between plants and up to 4 feet between rows).
- Roots shouldn’t be longer than 8 inches when plants are set out. Trim them if necessary.
- Planting site must be well-drained. Raised beds or container planting are good options for strawberries.
Other Interesting Facts about Strawberries:
- Strawberries and cream is a traditional Wimbledon snack. More than 25,000 kg (more than 55,000 pounds) of strawberries are consumed every year during the Wimbledon.
- In Belgium, there is a museum dedicated entirely to strawberries. It is called Musée de la Fraise.
- To symbolize perfection and righteousness, medieval stone masons carved strawberry designs on altars and around the tops of pillars in churches and cathedrals.